Ride‑sharing drivers accused of charging arbitrary fares amid ‘on‑the‑spot’ pricing
Ride‑sharing drivers are reportedly charging higher fares on the spot rather (Khaap) than following app rates. This trend has increased during the Eid holidays, with passengers alleging arbitrary fare hikes. Commuters say that since the first working day after the holiday break—coinciding with fuel shortages—ride‑sharing prices in the capital have risen abnormally. For certain distances, drivers are reportedly demanding an extra Tk 50–100 above previous fares, causing hardship for city residents.
Hasan Arif, a resident of Bashundhara Residential and an employee at a private firm in Gulshan‑2, said he used to commute to work for Tk 180–200. Now, for the same distance, drivers are asking Tk 250–300, and none are willing to go for less.
Another passenger from Bonosree, Selim Mia, alleged that bike ride fares have nearly doubled under the pretext of the fuel crisis. Where trips previously cost Tk 150–200, commuters are now being charged Tk 250–300.
He added that ride‑sharing became popular in the city over recent years as a fast means of travel, and many people came to rely on bikes to save time. But the recent fuel shortage has made that convenience costly.
Inquiries indicate that drivers across almost all parts of the capital—including Mirpur, Uttara, Kawla, Rampura Bridge, Hatirjheel, Kawran Bazar, Farmgate, Green Road, Shyamoli, Gabtoli, Mirpur‑10, Abdullahpur, Mohakhali, Banani, Badda, Basabo, Syedabad and Jatrabari—are charging extra fares. Complainants say that with offices and courts reopening after the Eid holidays on Tuesday, the influx of people returning from villages has led to higher charges at Dhaka’s entry points as well.
Drivers, however, claim that although fuel prices have not increased, supply shortages force them to spend long hours in queues to obtain fuel, cutting into their working hours. They also say fuel is not always available, leaving them with no choice but to charge higher fares.
Overall, both passengers and drivers are suffering the consequences of the fuel shortage.
DBTech/DHI/MUM
